AAMC FL Practice Exam

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Prepare for the AAMC FL Exam with in-depth practice tests. Enhance your understanding through detailed explanations and hints for each question. Get ready to ace your exam with robust preparation!

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What is the main function of triglycerides in the body?

Energy storage
Structural support
Transport of proteins
Hormone production

The correct answer is: Energy storage

The primary function of triglycerides in the body is energy storage. Triglycerides are the most common type of fat found in the body and serve as an efficient means of storing energy. They are composed of glycerol and three fatty acid chains, making them an excellent form of energy reserve, providing more than double the energy per gram compared to carbohydrates or proteins. When the body requires energy, triglycerides can be broken down into glycerol and fatty acids, which then undergo processes such as beta-oxidation to generate ATP, the energy currency of the cell. This energy storage function is crucial for maintaining energy balance, especially during periods of fasting, physical activity, or when food intake varies. While triglycerides may have other secondary roles in the body, their predominant and most significant role is in energy storage.